The Theory
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed in 1987 by Dr. Francine Shapiro. It has been extensively researched and proven to be a gold-standard treatment for PTSD. While originally designed to treat PTSD, it has since been found to be effective for the recovery of a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and panic disorders.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed in 1987 by Dr. Francine Shapiro. It has been extensively researched and proven to be a gold-standard treatment for PTSD. While originally designed to treat PTSD, it has since been found to be effective for the recovery of a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and panic disorders.
EMDR is based on the science of memory reconsolidation and the learning theory developed by Shapiro called the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. EMDR harnesses your brain’s natural healing capacity so that you can reduce negative emotions, gain clarity, and live in your natural state of well-being.
The Goal
The primary goal of EMDR is to help you heal trauma so you feel better. EMDR aims to reduce emotional distress from past experiences that are impacting you now.
The primary goal of EMDR is to help you heal trauma so you feel better. EMDR aims to reduce emotional distress from past experiences that are impacting you now.
How It Works
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses a unique process called bilateral stimulation, which activates both sides of your brain during the processing of past memories and recent events. This increase of electrical activity allows the brain to make mental connections resulting in improved emotional processing. There are several modes of bilateral stimulation. EMDR was originally developed using lateral eye movements. Since its conception, other modes of stimulation have been found to be effective, such as tactile and audio stimulation.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses a unique process called bilateral stimulation, which activates both sides of your brain during the processing of past memories and recent events. This increase of electrical activity allows the brain to make mental connections resulting in improved emotional processing. There are several modes of bilateral stimulation. EMDR was originally developed using lateral eye movements. Since its conception, other modes of stimulation have been found to be effective, such as tactile and audio stimulation.
The Process
STEP ONE: Consultation Call. We will have a phone call to determine if we feel like a good match-energetically, clinically, and logistically.
STEP TWO: History and Assessment. The first few sessions are for gathering information about your life history, such as your family of origin, relationships, and distressing life events. We will also discuss potential life events and/or memories that we will process using EMDR.
STEP THREE: Preparation. This period is when I offer education on the brain, nervous system, the effects of trauma, and more detail on how EMDR works through memory reconsolidation. I will also teach you skills and techniques on how to regulate your emotions and how to self-soothe when needed throughout the EMDR process and beyond. You will also have a chance during this period to try the various modes of bilateral stimulation to see what modes suit you best.
STEP FOUR: Desensitization and Reprocessing. We will use bilateral stimulation to reduce the emotional charge of past memories and reprocess them so that the effects of past events will no longer cause distress in your current life.
STEP FIVE: Regular Sessions. For the best results, we will need to meet regularly. Weekly sessions are highly recommended until significant progress is made. Once significant progress is made, we can discuss reducing sessions to biweekly and eventually to monthly maintenance sessions if desired.
STEP ONE: Consultation Call. We will have a phone call to determine if we feel like a good match-energetically, clinically, and logistically.
STEP TWO: History and Assessment. The first few sessions are for gathering information about your life history, such as your family of origin, relationships, and distressing life events. We will also discuss potential life events and/or memories that we will process using EMDR.
STEP THREE: Preparation. This period is when I offer education on the brain, nervous system, the effects of trauma, and more detail on how EMDR works through memory reconsolidation. I will also teach you skills and techniques on how to regulate your emotions and how to self-soothe when needed throughout the EMDR process and beyond. You will also have a chance during this period to try the various modes of bilateral stimulation to see what modes suit you best.
STEP FOUR: Desensitization and Reprocessing. We will use bilateral stimulation to reduce the emotional charge of past memories and reprocess them so that the effects of past events will no longer cause distress in your current life.
STEP FIVE: Regular Sessions. For the best results, we will need to meet regularly. Weekly sessions are highly recommended until significant progress is made. Once significant progress is made, we can discuss reducing sessions to biweekly and eventually to monthly maintenance sessions if desired.